You know, I'm starting to feel a little silly about the [Spoilers] thing--I'm pretty sure that I'm one of the last people to read anything I talk about, anyway!
- What the heck is wrong with Donna Troy? Okay, Kyle didn't like Jason to start with, but Donna had been giving him the benefit of the doubt thus far. And now she and Kyle are bonding by making nasty comments about him? My guess is that her reaction had more to do with Jason's attack on...what was his name? The green guy? But if that's the case, I'd have expected her to be more direct in her comments to Kyle--instead we get all this vague "I don't trust him" stuff. I guess I'm complaining because I've developed a certain fondness for Jason (not enough to follow him once he's out of Countdown, but still, a fondness--and I really don't know a thing about what he may have done before Countdown) and I don't think he's a bad guy, although it may well be that he's not the sort of good guy who would work well with Donna. I will say that it doesn't seem at all unlikely that Jason would pull a Batman (and not tell anyone what he's up to), and I guess it's not surprising (since presumably Batman is his main hero model?) that he wouldn't really understand why the others would have a problem with that.
I've gotten used to Kyle being kind of a jerk in this series, which is kind of odd, but I can justify it somewhat by the fact that he's been through a lot, and being thrown into something of an old situation (Donna is around and he's sort of starting from scratch in some ways with the Ion power gone) might have caused some degree of emotional regression. But Donna? She's supposed to be the mature one, isn't she? Yeah, be mad at Jason because he shot her, sock him in the jaw even, that part makes sense. Yeah, she's clearly got reason to be reevaluating her opinion of him. But the "re-Todd" and so forth, though--that just seems off.
- Piper and Trickster. I've seen a lot of commentary on this--whether Trickster's homophobia is being presented in a negative enough light, and so forth. I can't really comment on that, I suppose, but I've certainly had the experience of thinking I knew someone and finding out later that they really were not the sort of person I thought they were, and that seems to be happening between these two--Piper seems to have taken a "don't ask, don't tell" position within the villain community, so he clearly presumes that there will be people who won't approve, but he seemed really surprised at just how homophobic Trickster has turned out to be. Not that Trickster was a good friend, but they seemed like colleagues who worked well together. It's always disenheartening when you learn that someone you thought reasonably well of isn't what you thought--when you learn that they're racist, or homophobic, or dishonest, or whatever other thing is a deal-breaker for the relationship. That seems to be what's happening here.
- Superman Prime. I am tired of Superman Prime. That didn't take very long.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Details, details.
I got a huge kick out of Dick Hyacinth's post on degrees of comic book error--ranging from the obvious (where you can't believe that anyone, much less a comic book writer, would have gotten it wrong) to the obscure (where you probably didn't realize an error existed until you read it on the internet).
Having myself grown up during Marvel's age of the no-prize, I am not all that troubled by most comic book errors (I tend to mentally correct them), but this interests me. It's part of the appeal of episodic fiction, that there exists such a wealth of obscurity that it's hard to keep track of. Like anyone else I have a point where error interferes with my enjoyment of a book, but on the whole I'm fairly easy to please.
But you know, I have to admit that, when I started reading DC a few years back, I found it kind of irritating that all of the bits of DC lore I had learned as a child (I was never a regular DC fan but I did read them occasionally) were no longer valid; this had not been such a problem with my one DC title (Legion of Superheroes back when Crisis happened--Supergirl was only an occasional character there, and the rest of the LSH didn't really change all that much) but it kind of felt like I had studied for the test and then had the text changed on me.
Having myself grown up during Marvel's age of the no-prize, I am not all that troubled by most comic book errors (I tend to mentally correct them), but this interests me. It's part of the appeal of episodic fiction, that there exists such a wealth of obscurity that it's hard to keep track of. Like anyone else I have a point where error interferes with my enjoyment of a book, but on the whole I'm fairly easy to please.
But you know, I have to admit that, when I started reading DC a few years back, I found it kind of irritating that all of the bits of DC lore I had learned as a child (I was never a regular DC fan but I did read them occasionally) were no longer valid; this had not been such a problem with my one DC title (Legion of Superheroes back when Crisis happened--Supergirl was only an occasional character there, and the rest of the LSH didn't really change all that much) but it kind of felt like I had studied for the test and then had the text changed on me.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Disappointing news
According to this article, the company that was making the various Marvel Comics DVDs will no longer be doing so--once Marvel had its own digital comic thing going, they lost their license. I was sorry to hear this--I've got the Avengers DVD, and although it's far from ideal in format, I'm really not unhappy with it. I'm sorry that there won't be more coming out.
I hate to tell Marvel that this does not make me any more likely to want to sign up for Digital Comics Unlimited. It just annoys me. Now, if Marvel decides to amend their service to enable subscribers to keep the material they download--hell, even if they make it a separate deal with a separate pricing plan--that would be fine. But it doesn't look like that's on its way.
It's like when the thirteen-year-old was investigating ways to get music for her MP3 player--she saw that she could do it in two ways. Either she could sign up for a monthly service that gave her more music for the money but which required her to keep the service if she wanted to keep the music--if she dropped the service, she would lose whatever she had downloaded. Or she could purchase music per item, outside of an ongoing service--more expensive, but she can keep them forever. A number of services provide both options, which is nice.
She may be thirteen, but she knew immediately which was the better deal.
So do I. And eliminating it won't force me to the other option, it'll just have me buying none of it.
I hate to tell Marvel that this does not make me any more likely to want to sign up for Digital Comics Unlimited. It just annoys me. Now, if Marvel decides to amend their service to enable subscribers to keep the material they download--hell, even if they make it a separate deal with a separate pricing plan--that would be fine. But it doesn't look like that's on its way.
It's like when the thirteen-year-old was investigating ways to get music for her MP3 player--she saw that she could do it in two ways. Either she could sign up for a monthly service that gave her more music for the money but which required her to keep the service if she wanted to keep the music--if she dropped the service, she would lose whatever she had downloaded. Or she could purchase music per item, outside of an ongoing service--more expensive, but she can keep them forever. A number of services provide both options, which is nice.
She may be thirteen, but she knew immediately which was the better deal.
So do I. And eliminating it won't force me to the other option, it'll just have me buying none of it.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Brief NA 36 thought
The comics arrived today, and the first thing out of the box (well, okay, the third, but higher on the read list than usual) was New Avengers 36. The one with the notorious Wolverine-questions-Spider-Woman-in-the-shower scene.
I've got to agree with the folks who see no problem with it. Honestly, I think Logan just chose the shower because Jessica happened to be alone there. There really isn't any sexual feeling to it. Unlike a previous issue's scene with Echo accidentally walking in on used-to-be-Hawkeye.
And what is it with all the damn Avengers anyway, didn't anyone ever teach them to knock?
I've got to agree with the folks who see no problem with it. Honestly, I think Logan just chose the shower because Jessica happened to be alone there. There really isn't any sexual feeling to it. Unlike a previous issue's scene with Echo accidentally walking in on used-to-be-Hawkeye.
And what is it with all the damn Avengers anyway, didn't anyone ever teach them to knock?
Monday, November 26, 2007
Waiting for the trade, once again
I'm wondering what the comic companies' feeling is with regard to marketing their trade paperbacks.
On the one hand, it seems as if the regular old comics are the ones they want folks to get into the actual habit of buying--the ones where we can anticipate a particular comic being out at a particular time (well, ideally, issues of lateness aside) and plan to look for it and buy it.
On the other hand, once a book is out in trade, it seems like they do plan to keep putting the trades out on that title. (Apart from older stories where they seem to go with specific storylines taken outside of their regular context.) Presumably they want the trade audience to get into the regular-buying habit as well.
Are they considering trade readers and floppy readers to be two separate audiences? Because I know of a lot of comic readers who buy some of each, depending on various considerations. I do. I started buying trades to catch up on books I hadn't read before, and have moved on to buying some of my current titles in that form--ones I like but don't mind waiting for.
I also don't know which is a better money-maker for the companies--do they get more from six or eight issues of a particular title or from the trade paperback of those six or eight issues that eventually comes out?
On the whole, if I'm buying a book in trade form, I'm not in a big hurry for that particular comic. I don't scan the solicits for it, rushing to get it as soon as it's available--I'll wait until I get to a comic store, see what they happen to have in stock, and pick up what interests me. I don't, as a rule, order trades as part of my monthly comic box. (Other than Captain America, but that's the exception--I buy both floppies and trades of that one, because it's both a keeper and an edge-of-the-seater.) What I am saying is that I am not a regular purchaser of trades--I'll get them when I think about it. That's very different from the way I approach buying floppies.
Now, if I knew when to expect the trades out, things might be different. But as far as I can tell, there's no specific timeline provided for that to happen.
It would also be helpful to know not only when, but whether a given title will be out in trade form. Not that I expect to be handed that information--it could be seen as deterring the reader from buying the floppy, if they knew for sure that the title would be available in trade form someday. Just that it would be handy. :)
On the one hand, it seems as if the regular old comics are the ones they want folks to get into the actual habit of buying--the ones where we can anticipate a particular comic being out at a particular time (well, ideally, issues of lateness aside) and plan to look for it and buy it.
On the other hand, once a book is out in trade, it seems like they do plan to keep putting the trades out on that title. (Apart from older stories where they seem to go with specific storylines taken outside of their regular context.) Presumably they want the trade audience to get into the regular-buying habit as well.
Are they considering trade readers and floppy readers to be two separate audiences? Because I know of a lot of comic readers who buy some of each, depending on various considerations. I do. I started buying trades to catch up on books I hadn't read before, and have moved on to buying some of my current titles in that form--ones I like but don't mind waiting for.
I also don't know which is a better money-maker for the companies--do they get more from six or eight issues of a particular title or from the trade paperback of those six or eight issues that eventually comes out?
On the whole, if I'm buying a book in trade form, I'm not in a big hurry for that particular comic. I don't scan the solicits for it, rushing to get it as soon as it's available--I'll wait until I get to a comic store, see what they happen to have in stock, and pick up what interests me. I don't, as a rule, order trades as part of my monthly comic box. (Other than Captain America, but that's the exception--I buy both floppies and trades of that one, because it's both a keeper and an edge-of-the-seater.) What I am saying is that I am not a regular purchaser of trades--I'll get them when I think about it. That's very different from the way I approach buying floppies.
Now, if I knew when to expect the trades out, things might be different. But as far as I can tell, there's no specific timeline provided for that to happen.
It would also be helpful to know not only when, but whether a given title will be out in trade form. Not that I expect to be handed that information--it could be seen as deterring the reader from buying the floppy, if they knew for sure that the title would be available in trade form someday. Just that it would be handy. :)
Sunday, November 25, 2007
What I'm Getting in the Big Box of Comics Next Week
All New Atom 17
So far, just about always worthwhile. I do wonder what will happen to Ryan when the search for Ray Palmer is over--I can only assume that he will be found, although I suppose they might be going for an Al Capone's vault sort of thing.
Avengers Initiative 7
The thirteen-year-old really likes this title, I assume at least in part because it features younger heroes.
Birds of Prey 112
So far we have continued to enjoy this one under the new writer; it's one of few that absolutely everyone in the house reads.
Captain America 32
Of course.
Countdown 26, Countdown to Final Crisis 25-23
Yep. Jury's still out on whether I'll bother with Final Crisis itself. DC's got another Crisis coming up, Marvel's got another Secret Whatever coming up. I suspect that my best policy will be to just keep getting what I know I like anyway. Other Countdown-related items on the list are the Gotham by Gaslight, Red Rain, and Lord Havok and the Extremists books. I am by no means sure of enjoying any of them, but I'm pretty sure they all feature Donna/Jason/Kyle, who I've been enjoying in the main Countdown series, so there's a chance.
Fantastic Four 551
I think this might be the last FF I'll be getting. End of an era, me stopping getting Fantastic Four.
Iron Man 23
It might also be the last Iron Man I've ordered. Not quite end of an era but still kind of sad. I'll still get to see Tony in Captain America, best place to find him right now really.
Justice Society of America 10
This one we're going to start getting in trade form so this might be the last one, but I'm not sure. I really have been enjoying it a lot, but am not anxious enough each month to find out what happens to keep getting it as a floppy.
Marvel Adventures Avengers 18
For the eight-year-old, but I like it too!
Ms. Marvel 21
Still enjoying it enough that it's in no danger of being dropped.
New Avengers 36
Likewise.
New X-Men 43-44
For the thirteen-year-old; I read it too but don't enjoy it all that much.
Scooby Doo 126
For th eight-year-old, who is a major Scooby fan. I generally glance at it but don't really read it.
She-Hulk 23
I am not sure whether I'll keep getting this one, because I am not sure whether I care for the current storyline. Maybe I'll know better after I see this issue. I'll give it a few more months, I think.
Spirit 11
Very likely dropping this one soon. That sounds strange because I liked it a lot, but I'm not finding it as gripping now. Very likely that has to do with me and my own preferences rather than the book itself.
Wolverine Origins 19
Once again, only got it for the WWII Cap and Bucky appearance. I wasn't all that thrilled with the other two I got for that reason, but then I haven't been following the Origins title so don't know any of the backstory, and don't care a whole lot (I like Wolverine well enough but not to the point of wanting to know every detail about him, particularly when so often stories of Wolverine's past tend to be linked with guest appearances).
So far, just about always worthwhile. I do wonder what will happen to Ryan when the search for Ray Palmer is over--I can only assume that he will be found, although I suppose they might be going for an Al Capone's vault sort of thing.
Avengers Initiative 7
The thirteen-year-old really likes this title, I assume at least in part because it features younger heroes.
Birds of Prey 112
So far we have continued to enjoy this one under the new writer; it's one of few that absolutely everyone in the house reads.
Captain America 32
Of course.
Countdown 26, Countdown to Final Crisis 25-23
Yep. Jury's still out on whether I'll bother with Final Crisis itself. DC's got another Crisis coming up, Marvel's got another Secret Whatever coming up. I suspect that my best policy will be to just keep getting what I know I like anyway. Other Countdown-related items on the list are the Gotham by Gaslight, Red Rain, and Lord Havok and the Extremists books. I am by no means sure of enjoying any of them, but I'm pretty sure they all feature Donna/Jason/Kyle, who I've been enjoying in the main Countdown series, so there's a chance.
Fantastic Four 551
I think this might be the last FF I'll be getting. End of an era, me stopping getting Fantastic Four.
Iron Man 23
It might also be the last Iron Man I've ordered. Not quite end of an era but still kind of sad. I'll still get to see Tony in Captain America, best place to find him right now really.
Justice Society of America 10
This one we're going to start getting in trade form so this might be the last one, but I'm not sure. I really have been enjoying it a lot, but am not anxious enough each month to find out what happens to keep getting it as a floppy.
Marvel Adventures Avengers 18
For the eight-year-old, but I like it too!
Ms. Marvel 21
Still enjoying it enough that it's in no danger of being dropped.
New Avengers 36
Likewise.
New X-Men 43-44
For the thirteen-year-old; I read it too but don't enjoy it all that much.
Scooby Doo 126
For th eight-year-old, who is a major Scooby fan. I generally glance at it but don't really read it.
She-Hulk 23
I am not sure whether I'll keep getting this one, because I am not sure whether I care for the current storyline. Maybe I'll know better after I see this issue. I'll give it a few more months, I think.
Spirit 11
Very likely dropping this one soon. That sounds strange because I liked it a lot, but I'm not finding it as gripping now. Very likely that has to do with me and my own preferences rather than the book itself.
Wolverine Origins 19
Once again, only got it for the WWII Cap and Bucky appearance. I wasn't all that thrilled with the other two I got for that reason, but then I haven't been following the Origins title so don't know any of the backstory, and don't care a whole lot (I like Wolverine well enough but not to the point of wanting to know every detail about him, particularly when so often stories of Wolverine's past tend to be linked with guest appearances).
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Belated comic Thanksgiving post.
Yesterday was Thanksgiving, which was cool. Lots of food, way more pie than necessary. Trivial Pursuit with the family. I have a lot to be thankful for in life, the usual stuff, which I won't go into here because it's not that kind of blog.
So, what am I thankful for when it comes to comics?
Brubaker's Captain America, just about every month the best thing I read.
Green Lanterns.
The semi-return of the Young Avengers.
The recent appearances of the old Legion of Superheroes in Justice League, reminding me about what I loved about them as a kid, and reinforcing my decision to drop the current book because it just isn't for me anymore. Which is fine.
Countdown, because I do love the concept of a weekly book even when the execution isn't perfect.
Being able to order my comics online, which makes things so, so much easier for those of us who happen to live in the boonies.
The fact that, although comics are more expensive now than they were when I was a kid, they are also much better quality not only in terms of the writing and the art but in terms of the actual product. Can't complain too much about that.
The comic fan community on the net. Which is to say, you guys. :)
So, what am I thankful for when it comes to comics?
Brubaker's Captain America, just about every month the best thing I read.
Green Lanterns.
The semi-return of the Young Avengers.
The recent appearances of the old Legion of Superheroes in Justice League, reminding me about what I loved about them as a kid, and reinforcing my decision to drop the current book because it just isn't for me anymore. Which is fine.
Countdown, because I do love the concept of a weekly book even when the execution isn't perfect.
Being able to order my comics online, which makes things so, so much easier for those of us who happen to live in the boonies.
The fact that, although comics are more expensive now than they were when I was a kid, they are also much better quality not only in terms of the writing and the art but in terms of the actual product. Can't complain too much about that.
The comic fan community on the net. Which is to say, you guys. :)
Friday, November 23, 2007
What I Want" The February Marvel Solicitations
CAPTAIN AMERICA #35
THE NEW CAPTAIN AMERICA FIGHTS FOR THE HEART OF HIS COUNTRY IN A CITY GONE INSANE!
Last issue was just the tip of the iceberg, as the Red Skull's master plan kicks into motion, and chaos begins to take hold of the US, with only one man to stand in its way, but is he up to the task?
Of course I want this, top of the list as usual. But the blurbs don't help any, you know. "In a city gone insane!" would not make me want a book I didn't want already, and neither would the promise of chaos. But yeah, want.
MS. MARVEL #24
Brian Reed and Aaron Lopresti break the record set by Ms. Marvel's original series by reaching the twenty-fourth issue (cue fireworks)...and they do it in style! On Monster Island, surrounded by thousands of Brood, Carol Danvers regains her long lost Binary abilities...but the price may be her life!
Monster Island sounds interesting, the Brood do not, but Carol generally holds my interest. Besides, the thirteen-year-old would be thrilled if Carol became Binary again, so I'm getting.
MOON KNIGHT #15
“GOD AND COUNTRY,” PART 2
With Moon Knight leaving a trail of broken bodies in his wake, Tony Stark has one question on his mind: How the hell did this psycho get a Registration Card? But by the time Stark uncovers the truth, it might very well be too late. For Khonshu has great expectations of his avatar -- he wants the streets washed with blood, and what Khonshu wants, he usually gets.
Yes, indeed, I still want Moon Knight--they're changing writers but I'll see how it goes.
MIGHTY AVENGERS #9
DOCTOR DOOM!! The Avengers invade Latveria to take down Doctor Doom for his chemical attack on America. Only maybe it wasn't Doom exactly. It’s wall-to-wall mayhem as Mark Bagley joins Avengers writer Bendis in this globe–trotting spectacle filled with hints about next year’s SECRET INVASION!
Okay, the book sounds all right, just hope there's enough story in the now, as opposed to leads for Secret Invasion.
YOUNG AVENGERS PRESENTS #2 (of 6)
Teddy Altman thought he was just an average teenager with super strength and the ability to shapeshift. Then he discovered he was the son of a Skrull Princess and the Kree's most famed hero - Captain Marvel. Writer Brian Reed (CAPTAIN MARVEL, NEW AVENGERS: ILLUMINATI) and Harvey Tolibao (IRON MAN ANNUAL, STAR WARS) bring you the tale of the Hulkling's first meeting with the father he never knew.
Again, of course I want this. Partly because I've pretty much given up on the likelihood of seeing the YA regular book come back, ever.
NEW AVENGERS #38
The break up! CONSPIRACY, PARANOIA, BETRAYAL may have taken their toll on the Avengers newlyweds Jessica Jones and Luke Cage. After the shocking turn of events at the end of last month's NEW AVENGERS ANNUAL, has Jessica Jones turned her back on THE AVENGERS? Who better to help tell this story than Alias artist Michael Gaydos returning to Marvel for this special issue. Guest-Starring the Mighty Avengers. WHO DO YOU TRUST?
Sounds a lot more interesting than Mighty Avengers.
SHE-HULK #26
THE WHOLE HERO THING Conclusion!
As the battle between an Alien Bounty Hunter and an Intergalactic Fugitive rages on around them, She-Hulk and her new partner must try to defend the innocent lives caught in the crossfire. Finally, Jen will re-learn what it means to be a hero – at a terrible cost.
I hope this is better than it sounds, because if not I'll be dropping another book. We'll see.
CABLE & DEADPOOL #50
SERIES FINALE! Alien symbiotes plus dinosaurs equals what? A threat unlike anything you've ever seen! The dreaded VENOM SYMBIOTE has multiplied, and made some new friends of the prehistoric variety, giving the Merc with a Mouth his final opportunity to prove himself the ultimate hero -- or the ultimate villain! Guest staring SPIDER-MAN! The FANTASTIC FOUR! The MIGHTY AVENGERS! And of course, those lovable goons from AGENCY X!
*sniff* This is so sad, the end of Cable and Deadpool. All I want to know is where can I find Deadpool after this? (As for Cable, the caring is a good deal less.
THE NEW CAPTAIN AMERICA FIGHTS FOR THE HEART OF HIS COUNTRY IN A CITY GONE INSANE!
Last issue was just the tip of the iceberg, as the Red Skull's master plan kicks into motion, and chaos begins to take hold of the US, with only one man to stand in its way, but is he up to the task?
Of course I want this, top of the list as usual. But the blurbs don't help any, you know. "In a city gone insane!" would not make me want a book I didn't want already, and neither would the promise of chaos. But yeah, want.
MS. MARVEL #24
Brian Reed and Aaron Lopresti break the record set by Ms. Marvel's original series by reaching the twenty-fourth issue (cue fireworks)...and they do it in style! On Monster Island, surrounded by thousands of Brood, Carol Danvers regains her long lost Binary abilities...but the price may be her life!
Monster Island sounds interesting, the Brood do not, but Carol generally holds my interest. Besides, the thirteen-year-old would be thrilled if Carol became Binary again, so I'm getting.
MOON KNIGHT #15
“GOD AND COUNTRY,” PART 2
With Moon Knight leaving a trail of broken bodies in his wake, Tony Stark has one question on his mind: How the hell did this psycho get a Registration Card? But by the time Stark uncovers the truth, it might very well be too late. For Khonshu has great expectations of his avatar -- he wants the streets washed with blood, and what Khonshu wants, he usually gets.
Yes, indeed, I still want Moon Knight--they're changing writers but I'll see how it goes.
MIGHTY AVENGERS #9
DOCTOR DOOM!! The Avengers invade Latveria to take down Doctor Doom for his chemical attack on America. Only maybe it wasn't Doom exactly. It’s wall-to-wall mayhem as Mark Bagley joins Avengers writer Bendis in this globe–trotting spectacle filled with hints about next year’s SECRET INVASION!
Okay, the book sounds all right, just hope there's enough story in the now, as opposed to leads for Secret Invasion.
YOUNG AVENGERS PRESENTS #2 (of 6)
Teddy Altman thought he was just an average teenager with super strength and the ability to shapeshift. Then he discovered he was the son of a Skrull Princess and the Kree's most famed hero - Captain Marvel. Writer Brian Reed (CAPTAIN MARVEL, NEW AVENGERS: ILLUMINATI) and Harvey Tolibao (IRON MAN ANNUAL, STAR WARS) bring you the tale of the Hulkling's first meeting with the father he never knew.
Again, of course I want this. Partly because I've pretty much given up on the likelihood of seeing the YA regular book come back, ever.
NEW AVENGERS #38
The break up! CONSPIRACY, PARANOIA, BETRAYAL may have taken their toll on the Avengers newlyweds Jessica Jones and Luke Cage. After the shocking turn of events at the end of last month's NEW AVENGERS ANNUAL, has Jessica Jones turned her back on THE AVENGERS? Who better to help tell this story than Alias artist Michael Gaydos returning to Marvel for this special issue. Guest-Starring the Mighty Avengers. WHO DO YOU TRUST?
Sounds a lot more interesting than Mighty Avengers.
SHE-HULK #26
THE WHOLE HERO THING Conclusion!
As the battle between an Alien Bounty Hunter and an Intergalactic Fugitive rages on around them, She-Hulk and her new partner must try to defend the innocent lives caught in the crossfire. Finally, Jen will re-learn what it means to be a hero – at a terrible cost.
I hope this is better than it sounds, because if not I'll be dropping another book. We'll see.
CABLE & DEADPOOL #50
SERIES FINALE! Alien symbiotes plus dinosaurs equals what? A threat unlike anything you've ever seen! The dreaded VENOM SYMBIOTE has multiplied, and made some new friends of the prehistoric variety, giving the Merc with a Mouth his final opportunity to prove himself the ultimate hero -- or the ultimate villain! Guest staring SPIDER-MAN! The FANTASTIC FOUR! The MIGHTY AVENGERS! And of course, those lovable goons from AGENCY X!
*sniff* This is so sad, the end of Cable and Deadpool. All I want to know is where can I find Deadpool after this? (As for Cable, the caring is a good deal less.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
LInkage
I have spent the day making pies, so here are some links.
Interesting stuff on reading comics online:
Comics: Print Versus Online
Comics: Print Versus Online, Part 2
Interesting stuff on reading comics online:
Comics: Print Versus Online
Comics: Print Versus Online, Part 2
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
What I Want: The February DC Solicitations
COUNTDOWN TO FINAL CRISIS #12-9
With the recent devastation behind them, the new Challengers return to our universe to face their next challenge. Also this month: a returning hero, a surprising future for Pied Piper, and Karate Kid fulfills his destiny.
Yeees, I still want this. Sigh. I still feel like kind of a sap for getting it, too, but what're you going to do? I sure don't want it in trade form.
GREEN LANTERN CORPS #21
It’s a desperate race to prevent Sinestro Corps rings from finding new masters! Kyle, Guy and the rest of the GL Corps discover a horrible plan that may affect their own Power Rings when Mongul learns what his recently acquired Sinestro Corps Ring can do!
This sounds promising :).
What I don't want:
JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #13
“Thy Kingdom Come” continues! The Justice Society has been tracking the “Heartbreak Slayer” — a mysterious serial killer targeting super-villains — for months. Now, as new members are welcomed into the fold and the Society expands, the JSA will come face-to-face with an evil that threatens the future they stand for.
I generally like this book a lot, but the focus on Kingdom Come has turned me off to it, at least for a while. I've read Kingdom Come. I've got the trade. I have no interest in reading any more of it.
Wow, that's not a lot, is it? Switching to the trades will do that, I suppose. Speaking of which, I noticed that the last issue of the Wonder Girl mini is also out this month; the thirteen-year-old wants it, but is happy to wait for the trade as well.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Missing blog
Hey, does anyone know what happened to the Major Spoilers site? It fell off of my Bloglines, and the link doesn't seem to be working. I do read a lot of blogs, and I don't necessarily keep up with all of them regularly (although I do read 'em all eventually) so it's possible that it's been gone for a while and I've just now noticed its absence.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Context? Context? Anyone?
I've got a couple of confessions to make that might put my query into, well, context.
First of all, pretty much my sole exposure to Plastic Man has been in the old JLA trades. We liked him on the whole. The kids liked him because he was funny, I liked him because there was actually a lot of subtlety to his portrayal in that series. I have no idea whether that's typical, or whether he was a different guy there than he has ever been anywhere else, or what the situation was.
Second...okay, yeah, I'll admit it. Sometimes I read Scans Daily. Mostly for the older stuff, but I'll also look at entries featuring newer comics if I don't happen to get them.
So anyway, someone printed this from a recent Plas appearance, and I'm a little confused. This just doesn't seem, well, right. Eel was hardly an enlightened sort when it came to women. Words like "broad" were just part of his vocabulary. He didn't treat the women (or the kids) in his life all that well, and there's a scene in one book where he impersonates Barda's dress that makes me impressed with his resilience that he's still alive.
But, well, this is tacky.
Plastic Man may have been something of a sleaze, and certainly never a gentleman, but he also had a sort of noir gallantry about him. This actually makes me a little uncomfortable, and I'm really not that easy to make uncomfortable. Possibly this is because he's a character my kids liked a lot (he's designed that way, honestly--stretchy guy who fights crime by changing into doofy shapes and quips a lot), I don't know. I would be interested in hearing whether there's more to the story that would put this into a better context.
First of all, pretty much my sole exposure to Plastic Man has been in the old JLA trades. We liked him on the whole. The kids liked him because he was funny, I liked him because there was actually a lot of subtlety to his portrayal in that series. I have no idea whether that's typical, or whether he was a different guy there than he has ever been anywhere else, or what the situation was.
Second...okay, yeah, I'll admit it. Sometimes I read Scans Daily. Mostly for the older stuff, but I'll also look at entries featuring newer comics if I don't happen to get them.
So anyway, someone printed this from a recent Plas appearance, and I'm a little confused. This just doesn't seem, well, right. Eel was hardly an enlightened sort when it came to women. Words like "broad" were just part of his vocabulary. He didn't treat the women (or the kids) in his life all that well, and there's a scene in one book where he impersonates Barda's dress that makes me impressed with his resilience that he's still alive.
But, well, this is tacky.
Plastic Man may have been something of a sleaze, and certainly never a gentleman, but he also had a sort of noir gallantry about him. This actually makes me a little uncomfortable, and I'm really not that easy to make uncomfortable. Possibly this is because he's a character my kids liked a lot (he's designed that way, honestly--stretchy guy who fights crime by changing into doofy shapes and quips a lot), I don't know. I would be interested in hearing whether there's more to the story that would put this into a better context.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
The age of heroes.
I just read this article at the Newsarama blog, all about eternally-young superheroes (and, especially, superheroines):
Put that way, it does seem, as the article states, to be a reflection of the broader trend in media--the heroes and heroines in action movies are also quite young (they may be played by actors in their late thirties or early forties, but the characters are typically youthful--or, if not, exceptional for their age). There's not really any escaping that.
It's possible that this also has roots in an effort to make the stories more believable; while there are older athletes, on the whole it's a young person's game. There's only one George Foreman.
And it's true that, the older you get, the less likely your body would be to recover from the sort of abuse most heroes are given. (I'm no athlete, but I am forty-five now, and about five years ago my left knee decided its job is to periodically remind me of what I'd done to it in a college weight training class twenty years earlier. I can only imagine the sorts of things that would be coming back to haunt a forty-something superhero.)
The only hero I can think of who does seem to feel the effects of his age is Moon Knight--it was kind of refreshing, seeing him barely able to get down the stairs the day after a night's work beating up the bad guys. But Moon Knight is far from typical, and his title has made a point of saying that he and his cast of characters are old, and worn, and tired. Still makes for a good story, though.
There’s this strange idea that people want to read about people their age or younger. This idea that nobody wants to see or hear about anyone over 30. That the audience wishes to recapture their youth and not be reminded that they are growing older.
Put that way, it does seem, as the article states, to be a reflection of the broader trend in media--the heroes and heroines in action movies are also quite young (they may be played by actors in their late thirties or early forties, but the characters are typically youthful--or, if not, exceptional for their age). There's not really any escaping that.
It's possible that this also has roots in an effort to make the stories more believable; while there are older athletes, on the whole it's a young person's game. There's only one George Foreman.
And it's true that, the older you get, the less likely your body would be to recover from the sort of abuse most heroes are given. (I'm no athlete, but I am forty-five now, and about five years ago my left knee decided its job is to periodically remind me of what I'd done to it in a college weight training class twenty years earlier. I can only imagine the sorts of things that would be coming back to haunt a forty-something superhero.)
The only hero I can think of who does seem to feel the effects of his age is Moon Knight--it was kind of refreshing, seeing him barely able to get down the stairs the day after a night's work beating up the bad guys. But Moon Knight is far from typical, and his title has made a point of saying that he and his cast of characters are old, and worn, and tired. Still makes for a good story, though.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
More Spirit movie enthusing
This article talks a bit about the upcoming Spirit movie, and has a pic (but not a lot of other info) about the guy playing the main character. I know nothing about him, but I was glad to see that they aren't going with someone who's either too pretty or too young. I think this guy could look like the Spirit. Will wait to judge whether he can play him. :)
Friday, November 16, 2007
Just one more.
Okay, so I've said that Iron Man is the only comic-related movie that has piqued my interest since, well, since comic-book movies. (Well, the first Superman, but I was a kid then.)
No longer true.
I also want to see the Spirit movie now.
No longer true.
I also want to see the Spirit movie now.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
On being nice
Speaking as someone with 30+ years experience getting what she wants by being nice, I will admit that I'm predisposed to agreeing with a lot of what this article on niceness has to say, particularly the part about it not being enough to tell someone you want something (in whatever tone you choose), you also have to show them how doing it will benefit them. Because, while I do have a lot of faith in humanity, I also know the role self-interest plays in our world--and I know, even personally, that I'll be a lot quicker to do someone a favor if that favor also helps me out in some way. (Because I'm nice but I'm not that nice. :))
And from my own experience with others trying to get me to do what they want, I'll say that, all else being equal, I'm far more likely to respond to the kindness-and-reason approach than I am to the yelling-and-abuse approach. (Of course all else never is equal, and there are always other factors in play, but in theory.)
If someone is angry about something I am doing, I do need to know, but I respond very poorly to being vented at directly. That could be me, of course; I can be sensitive in that way. However, if you've been nice and I've ignored you, please feel free to raise your voice a bit. I have kids, I know how this works. :)
What I'd also like to add, though, is that I think there's a difference between approaching an individual directly about an issue--writing a letter addressing particular issues to a comic company, for example--and talking about it in one's own blog or other informal place on the web. If I want someone to do something for me, and I'm planning to ask them to do it, I'll be polite. If I'm talking with friends about why I want this done for me, or if I'm working out exactly how I feel about an issue, I might be a little grumpier. Which is fine. It's also true that other folks might see what I wrote in an informal setting and have that in mind if and when I communicate with them more formally. That's also fine--if I have a good point, it will stand regardless. It's okay to be mad, and it's okay to express it. And that's actually useful information for others--that people are angry about whatever--but that doesn't have to be the main point of it, and that's usually clear from the context and/or the forum used, you know?
And from my own experience with others trying to get me to do what they want, I'll say that, all else being equal, I'm far more likely to respond to the kindness-and-reason approach than I am to the yelling-and-abuse approach. (Of course all else never is equal, and there are always other factors in play, but in theory.)
If someone is angry about something I am doing, I do need to know, but I respond very poorly to being vented at directly. That could be me, of course; I can be sensitive in that way. However, if you've been nice and I've ignored you, please feel free to raise your voice a bit. I have kids, I know how this works. :)
What I'd also like to add, though, is that I think there's a difference between approaching an individual directly about an issue--writing a letter addressing particular issues to a comic company, for example--and talking about it in one's own blog or other informal place on the web. If I want someone to do something for me, and I'm planning to ask them to do it, I'll be polite. If I'm talking with friends about why I want this done for me, or if I'm working out exactly how I feel about an issue, I might be a little grumpier. Which is fine. It's also true that other folks might see what I wrote in an informal setting and have that in mind if and when I communicate with them more formally. That's also fine--if I have a good point, it will stand regardless. It's okay to be mad, and it's okay to express it. And that's actually useful information for others--that people are angry about whatever--but that doesn't have to be the main point of it, and that's usually clear from the context and/or the forum used, you know?
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Online comics?
The interesting thing of the day is that Marvel Comics is going to be making comic books available online, a selection of some earlier books as well as some of their newer titles, although apparently nothing very new.
For me, this is a lousy idea. I bought myself the Avengers on CD-ROM, the Avengers being my favorite title since time immemorial, but I've only glanced at it since I got it because it's just too hard for my aging eyes to take. That and the total and unforgivable lack of any sort of search function. It's in PDF format, which would be great if it were laid out one page at a time, but it isn't, it's laid out in facing pages, and that means it's too much work to scroll up and down and up and down and so forth (which I need to do a lot of due to the size I need it to be in order to read it at all, thanks to the poor eyesight I alluded to earlier).
But I imagine that most folks are better equipped (eye-wise) to read comics on their computers.
They'll be charging $59.88/year, or $9.99/month, for access to their online archive of material, which isn't bad if the archive is updated on a regular basis and if you're interested in a wide range of their material.
I did note that they will be making the material formatted in both double-page and single-page layouts--or allowing you to read it one panel at a time--which would certainly make it more likely that I'd be interested in it at some point. (Some point when I have a better internet connection, actually, but I'd a least consider it now.) Certainly a more reader-friendly approach.
But I find that I'm considering this as only a potential add-on to my current comic purchases, and not a replacement. I don't really enjoy reading online, not for relaxation--I find it much easier to read off of paper. (Because I'm ooooold! :)) I spend a lot of time on the internet but there are things I really prefer to read IRL.
Like comics.
I also don't like the idea of buying temporary access to the comics, rather than actually having them in your possession--I do a lot of re-reading, and I wouldn't want to have to pay a continuing fee just to be able to do that.
I can see uses for this, just not any that would apply for me personally.
For me, this is a lousy idea. I bought myself the Avengers on CD-ROM, the Avengers being my favorite title since time immemorial, but I've only glanced at it since I got it because it's just too hard for my aging eyes to take. That and the total and unforgivable lack of any sort of search function. It's in PDF format, which would be great if it were laid out one page at a time, but it isn't, it's laid out in facing pages, and that means it's too much work to scroll up and down and up and down and so forth (which I need to do a lot of due to the size I need it to be in order to read it at all, thanks to the poor eyesight I alluded to earlier).
But I imagine that most folks are better equipped (eye-wise) to read comics on their computers.
They'll be charging $59.88/year, or $9.99/month, for access to their online archive of material, which isn't bad if the archive is updated on a regular basis and if you're interested in a wide range of their material.
I did note that they will be making the material formatted in both double-page and single-page layouts--or allowing you to read it one panel at a time--which would certainly make it more likely that I'd be interested in it at some point. (Some point when I have a better internet connection, actually, but I'd a least consider it now.) Certainly a more reader-friendly approach.
But I find that I'm considering this as only a potential add-on to my current comic purchases, and not a replacement. I don't really enjoy reading online, not for relaxation--I find it much easier to read off of paper. (Because I'm ooooold! :)) I spend a lot of time on the internet but there are things I really prefer to read IRL.
Like comics.
I also don't like the idea of buying temporary access to the comics, rather than actually having them in your possession--I do a lot of re-reading, and I wouldn't want to have to pay a continuing fee just to be able to do that.
I can see uses for this, just not any that would apply for me personally.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Love and comics
I just read a piece at Kleefeld on Comics (Love Romances) about whether it's a good idea for a comic fan to seek out relationships among other comic fans.
While I think it's cool to share interests, I think the important thing is that the other party shouldn't be hostile to comics, or look down on them (and you, for your interest).
The husband and I met in college. I was still getting comics at the time, but I didn't have them at school with me, and while I'm sure I mentioned that I read them I don't remember talking about them much with him. He likes comics, will read them if they are around (and boy, are they around!) but I think he'd also be perfectly happy never to read another one. He doesn't mind them, even enjoys them to a point, but doesn't seek them out. More importantly, though, he thinks it's great that I like them, and he's fine with the girls reading them as well. He respects the medium. And he's quite fond of a few particular titles; the girls and I aren't allowed to discuss the latest Cable and Deadpool until he's read it. :)
But we both have a number of interests, many of which we just don't share with each other. You're not about to get me out shooting black powder rifles, and he hasn't a flicker of interest in taking up quilting. The important thing is that we each support the other's interests, and that we have plenty of other interests that we do share. It also helps that we like each other. :)
However, it's possible that, if you really only have one main interest that overwhelms all others--an uber-hobby, so to speak--you really ought to try to find a partner who shares it. :)
While I think it's cool to share interests, I think the important thing is that the other party shouldn't be hostile to comics, or look down on them (and you, for your interest).
The husband and I met in college. I was still getting comics at the time, but I didn't have them at school with me, and while I'm sure I mentioned that I read them I don't remember talking about them much with him. He likes comics, will read them if they are around (and boy, are they around!) but I think he'd also be perfectly happy never to read another one. He doesn't mind them, even enjoys them to a point, but doesn't seek them out. More importantly, though, he thinks it's great that I like them, and he's fine with the girls reading them as well. He respects the medium. And he's quite fond of a few particular titles; the girls and I aren't allowed to discuss the latest Cable and Deadpool until he's read it. :)
But we both have a number of interests, many of which we just don't share with each other. You're not about to get me out shooting black powder rifles, and he hasn't a flicker of interest in taking up quilting. The important thing is that we each support the other's interests, and that we have plenty of other interests that we do share. It also helps that we like each other. :)
However, it's possible that, if you really only have one main interest that overwhelms all others--an uber-hobby, so to speak--you really ought to try to find a partner who shares it. :)
Monday, November 12, 2007
Wolverine: Origins #17-18 [Spoilers]
No, I don't generally get this book. I don't dislike Wolverine, but I don't follow his character either. And yes, I only got these few issues (there should be one more coming next month) because they feature Captain America and Bucky. Because I do follow the character of Winter Soldier.
In fact, it's a Winter Soldier month all around here at our house--Captain America 30 and 31, these two books, and Cable and Deadpool 45, which also features Golden-Age Cap and Bucky.
Now, keeping in mind that I don't buy this book and I have no idea what the storylines have been so far, I can start out by saying that I don't think I'll be picking it up. Sometimes that does happen, you know--that I'll try a book because of a guest appearance and end up getting the book on a regular basis. Just not this time.
I don't care much for the art. It's not bad, just not to my taste--for one thing, Wolverine appears uncharacteristically clean-cut--but there are some good points to it, including good facial differentiation among characters and a nice subtlety of expression.
I am enjoying the retakes on the character of Bucky (and, to a lesser extent, Captain America) in the Golden Age; in this case, he is presented as impatient and hot-tempered, and perhaps a bit jealous of his partnership with Cap, which I suppose isn't unrealistic considering how early in their career this is. (I also have to say that it's a rare artist who can make Bucky's Golden Age costume look good on a young adult, and in this book it really doesn't, but I think that may be the point.)
What I find unlikely, though, is that Cap is presented as a bit naive, or at least unaware. In #18, it turns out that he has not been fully briefed about his and Bucky's mission--Bucky has a task to do (taking out Baron Strucker) that Cap knows nothing about. My impression, from reading elsewhere, was that Cap may not have taken part in the bloodier aspects of their missions, but he certainly knew about them, and knew what Bucky was up to. The notion of Bucky as more informed than Cap really doesn't fit with what I've gathered so far.
One thing I am enjoying about this storyline is that it shows that Cap didn't become a living legend overnight--that, like anyone else, he had to prove himself. You don't see that a lot in Captain America origin stories--usually he struggles while in training, but as soon as he goes official, he's immediately Captain America. Here you see how he did it, which is kind of cool.
In fact, it's a Winter Soldier month all around here at our house--Captain America 30 and 31, these two books, and Cable and Deadpool 45, which also features Golden-Age Cap and Bucky.
Now, keeping in mind that I don't buy this book and I have no idea what the storylines have been so far, I can start out by saying that I don't think I'll be picking it up. Sometimes that does happen, you know--that I'll try a book because of a guest appearance and end up getting the book on a regular basis. Just not this time.
I don't care much for the art. It's not bad, just not to my taste--for one thing, Wolverine appears uncharacteristically clean-cut--but there are some good points to it, including good facial differentiation among characters and a nice subtlety of expression.
I am enjoying the retakes on the character of Bucky (and, to a lesser extent, Captain America) in the Golden Age; in this case, he is presented as impatient and hot-tempered, and perhaps a bit jealous of his partnership with Cap, which I suppose isn't unrealistic considering how early in their career this is. (I also have to say that it's a rare artist who can make Bucky's Golden Age costume look good on a young adult, and in this book it really doesn't, but I think that may be the point.)
What I find unlikely, though, is that Cap is presented as a bit naive, or at least unaware. In #18, it turns out that he has not been fully briefed about his and Bucky's mission--Bucky has a task to do (taking out Baron Strucker) that Cap knows nothing about. My impression, from reading elsewhere, was that Cap may not have taken part in the bloodier aspects of their missions, but he certainly knew about them, and knew what Bucky was up to. The notion of Bucky as more informed than Cap really doesn't fit with what I've gathered so far.
One thing I am enjoying about this storyline is that it shows that Cap didn't become a living legend overnight--that, like anyone else, he had to prove himself. You don't see that a lot in Captain America origin stories--usually he struggles while in training, but as soon as he goes official, he's immediately Captain America. Here you see how he did it, which is kind of cool.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Green Lantern Corps #16 [Spoilers] - Sinestro Corps War, Part 9
Overall a good issue. (By the way, is there some rule that says that, in any issue he is in, Kilowog must call someone a poozer at least once? Just wondering.) The highlight, for me, is Natu's encounter with Sinestro. He actually seems peeved that she didn't follow his orders! :)
And we now have the new Ion. Considering the power level Sodam Yat enjoyed even before being given the Ion power--heck, even before being given his ring--I can only anticipate what he may be capable of. So Ion will be, I assume, in the GLC title, as will the old Ion, Kyle Rayner. He seemed happy enough to be returned to normal GL status in part 8, but it will be interesting to see how these two interact.
I seem to be running short of words on these--I think in part because I've been spoiled on so much of this over the last month, and in part because the storyline itself seems to be coming to a close.
And we now have the new Ion. Considering the power level Sodam Yat enjoyed even before being given the Ion power--heck, even before being given his ring--I can only anticipate what he may be capable of. So Ion will be, I assume, in the GLC title, as will the old Ion, Kyle Rayner. He seemed happy enough to be returned to normal GL status in part 8, but it will be interesting to see how these two interact.
I seem to be running short of words on these--I think in part because I've been spoiled on so much of this over the last month, and in part because the storyline itself seems to be coming to a close.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Something fishy?
I decided a while ago that the Illuminati series would be one to pick up in trade form. But it interests me enough not to want to totally ignore it while it's happening, so I have been reading about it some online. So when I saw this interview with Brian Bendis at the Newsarama site, I read it right away.
It looks all right. This quote, however, I particularly noticed:
On the one hand, this could have been funnier if it hadn't missed the main point.
On the other hand, the promise of more of Namor's Atlantean flesh? Possibly a selling point for some. :)
I will say that it is probably true that fish-men are the last group of male superheroes who are routinely presented wearing such brief costumes--in fact, their costumes typically are briefs, specifically swimming briefs, at least historically. (There were a number of other pantsless heroes in the Golden Age, and at least one who performed admirably wearing a fetching pair of hot pants.) It's a small group, though, pretty much consisting of Namor and Triton (and Triton also sort of gets the thing where a non-human skintone seems to mean that it's okay to have less costume). In other words, why is Namor even wearing a shirt to be torn off? I don't mean in this case, because I've read the comic where he got first got out of the trunks*--I mean in general.
Fish-women, on the other hand...well, there's not a lot to say on that point, because, while they are also quite a small group (consisting of Dorma, Namora, Namorita and Marrina, and that's it as far as I am aware), their membership is all currently dead.
* I don't have the specific issue in hand, but IIRC Namor's nifty dark blue outfit was given to him by Reed Richards after exposure to chemicals made him unable to survive out of water. (Or was it that he couldn't survive in water? It's been a while. Regardless, it was a problem.) In any case, the suit fixed the problem. I have no idea why he still wears it, since I'm pretty sure he's been back to normal for quite some time.
It looks all right. This quote, however, I particularly noticed:
in the fight scene with the Skrull, Namor begins it fully clothed, and, by the time it’s over, his shirt is ripped open, and more of his naked body can be seen. I know that this will cause a letter-writing campaign of my obvious disdain for fish-men, and my desire to see fish-men injured and demeaned
On the one hand, this could have been funnier if it hadn't missed the main point.
On the other hand, the promise of more of Namor's Atlantean flesh? Possibly a selling point for some. :)
I will say that it is probably true that fish-men are the last group of male superheroes who are routinely presented wearing such brief costumes--in fact, their costumes typically are briefs, specifically swimming briefs, at least historically. (There were a number of other pantsless heroes in the Golden Age, and at least one who performed admirably wearing a fetching pair of hot pants.) It's a small group, though, pretty much consisting of Namor and Triton (and Triton also sort of gets the thing where a non-human skintone seems to mean that it's okay to have less costume). In other words, why is Namor even wearing a shirt to be torn off? I don't mean in this case, because I've read the comic where he got first got out of the trunks*--I mean in general.
Fish-women, on the other hand...well, there's not a lot to say on that point, because, while they are also quite a small group (consisting of Dorma, Namora, Namorita and Marrina, and that's it as far as I am aware), their membership is all currently dead.
* I don't have the specific issue in hand, but IIRC Namor's nifty dark blue outfit was given to him by Reed Richards after exposure to chemicals made him unable to survive out of water. (Or was it that he couldn't survive in water? It's been a while. Regardless, it was a problem.) In any case, the suit fixed the problem. I have no idea why he still wears it, since I'm pretty sure he's been back to normal for quite some time.
Friday, November 09, 2007
How do they find my site?
Kalinara has put out the call for funny search terms people have used to find your site. I haven't even looked at this in a few months, so this was kind of fun; I tend to get a lot of general searches on "brainfeeze" and a lot on those insipid "love is..." comics. Plenty on subjects I know I've covered, like "johnny romance crystal fantastic four" and "what is a fangirl." And, of course, the occasional out-of-left-field loopiness.
But mostly, I just get the typical funny stuff.
You know, like "supergirl spanking" or (even better!) "supergirl spanking boys comic"--which leads me to wonder whether the seeker is looking for the usual Supergirl being spanked, or perhaps wants something where it's Supergirl doing the spanking. You know, more on the "S" side of S&M, for a change. Or maybe dominatrix Supergirl (although if you want that, you might as well go read Mary Marvel instead, she's already dressed for it).
Got one for "marvel select winter soldier." (Yes, I had to make this search myself once I saw it. No, there isn't one. :()
Got one for "sue richards cheating." (They might get better results if they added "namor" to the search box...)
There's also "boy love comic shop," which I really don't want to know about.
There's "comic book catman bulge," which, okay, and should I reread Secret Six now?
There's "superheroine spiderwoman stories nudity," which at least they know what they're looking for.
And then there's "hawkgirl high heels," for the fashion-conscious fan (maybe running isn't such a concern for her with the wings and all?).
Other than that, nothing all that novel. Some people have all the luck.
But mostly, I just get the typical funny stuff.
You know, like "supergirl spanking" or (even better!) "supergirl spanking boys comic"--which leads me to wonder whether the seeker is looking for the usual Supergirl being spanked, or perhaps wants something where it's Supergirl doing the spanking. You know, more on the "S" side of S&M, for a change. Or maybe dominatrix Supergirl (although if you want that, you might as well go read Mary Marvel instead, she's already dressed for it).
Got one for "marvel select winter soldier." (Yes, I had to make this search myself once I saw it. No, there isn't one. :()
Got one for "sue richards cheating." (They might get better results if they added "namor" to the search box...)
There's also "boy love comic shop," which I really don't want to know about.
There's "comic book catman bulge," which, okay, and should I reread Secret Six now?
There's "superheroine spiderwoman stories nudity," which at least they know what they're looking for.
And then there's "hawkgirl high heels," for the fashion-conscious fan (maybe running isn't such a concern for her with the wings and all?).
Other than that, nothing all that novel. Some people have all the luck.
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Green Lantern #24 [Spoilers] - Sinestro Corps War, Part 8
Sinestro may be an evil genius type, but he sure does suck at the oath-writing. "Let those who try to stop what's right?" Seriously?
But I doubt that anyone hearing it is criticizing his style.
I was pleased to see Hal's reply to the others who were wondering why Kyle hadn't broken free of Parallax yet and saying that he didn't even seem to be trying. I suppose it's inevitable that Kyle will have some problems, particularly with the other Green Lanterns, because of this, but it's still good to see Hal trying to prevent this.
I also enjoyed Guy's crabby resentment of having to go after the painting. :)
And speaking of Kyle, any sign of the sexy sort of evil? Well and truly gone. There are some seriously disturbing visuals in this issue, particularly the way Parallax takes Hal as well into himself. (The way Hal and Guy get out isn't too appealing, either.)
And I am, actually, pretty happy with the way this issue ends. I never did care much for Kyle's Ion identity (last year's maxi-series didn't help much with that) so seeing him back as a regular old Green Lantern again? Best outcome possible!
But I doubt that anyone hearing it is criticizing his style.
I was pleased to see Hal's reply to the others who were wondering why Kyle hadn't broken free of Parallax yet and saying that he didn't even seem to be trying. I suppose it's inevitable that Kyle will have some problems, particularly with the other Green Lanterns, because of this, but it's still good to see Hal trying to prevent this.
I also enjoyed Guy's crabby resentment of having to go after the painting. :)
And speaking of Kyle, any sign of the sexy sort of evil? Well and truly gone. There are some seriously disturbing visuals in this issue, particularly the way Parallax takes Hal as well into himself. (The way Hal and Guy get out isn't too appealing, either.)
And I am, actually, pretty happy with the way this issue ends. I never did care much for Kyle's Ion identity (last year's maxi-series didn't help much with that) so seeing him back as a regular old Green Lantern again? Best outcome possible!
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Okay, now I get to feel potentially silly...
Kalinara points out that the whole Wizard thing may have been a joke of some sort on the part of Wizard.
I guess that makes more sense than Wizard specifically excluding ten percent of their readership.
But I'm usually not bad about picking up on stuff like that, and this time I didn't.
Maybe I'll just to finish reading my comic books...
I guess that makes more sense than Wizard specifically excluding ten percent of their readership.
But I'm usually not bad about picking up on stuff like that, and this time I didn't.
Maybe I'll just to finish reading my comic books...
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Green Lantern Corps #16 [Spoilers] - Sinestro Corps War, Part 7
You know, I didn't care for the art in this book when I first picked it up--the stories more than made up for it, but I still didn't like it. I've got to say that it's really grown on me over the last months. It may be atypical, but it's certainly effective, and seems ideal for a title with so many characters that need to be differentiated.
So, had anyone ever heard of Sodam Yat before this storyline? I hadn't, but then I don't have a real history with most DC titles, including Green Lantern books. From that point of view it seems as if he was pulled in out of nowhere to take on the Ion mantle, that he's being given that solely on the basis of his performance in the Sinestro Corps thing. Not that that couldn't be a valid reason, or proof of his ability, but it does seem a little sudden. Then again, I don't suppose there's any really graceful way to introduce a new mega-powerful character into an existing title. :)
Of course, it is the Guardians who are assigning Yat this importance, and its not as if their judgment has been particularly good lately...
The Children of the White Lobe remain one of the creepiest things I've seen here, which isn't surprising, there's nothing creepier than creepy kids.
And here we also see a different set of reactions to the enabling of lethal force, some fairly enthusiastic, and a stellar moment from Salaak. Good read.
So, had anyone ever heard of Sodam Yat before this storyline? I hadn't, but then I don't have a real history with most DC titles, including Green Lantern books. From that point of view it seems as if he was pulled in out of nowhere to take on the Ion mantle, that he's being given that solely on the basis of his performance in the Sinestro Corps thing. Not that that couldn't be a valid reason, or proof of his ability, but it does seem a little sudden. Then again, I don't suppose there's any really graceful way to introduce a new mega-powerful character into an existing title. :)
Of course, it is the Guardians who are assigning Yat this importance, and its not as if their judgment has been particularly good lately...
The Children of the White Lobe remain one of the creepiest things I've seen here, which isn't surprising, there's nothing creepier than creepy kids.
And here we also see a different set of reactions to the enabling of lethal force, some fairly enthusiastic, and a stellar moment from Salaak. Good read.
Monday, November 05, 2007
Green Lantern #23 [Spoilers] - Sinestro Corps War, Part 6
Two months later, I'm going to try to continue with this. :)
So, what is it with the Sinestro Corps and teeth? First Parallax gives Kyle the worst dental makeover ever, and now they show Lyssa Drak with a set of similar narrow, pointy ones. The more teeth, the more evil?
It's not a bad book, but I still plan to drop it after the Sinestro Corps War is over; I'm just not finding Hal all that compelling. But I do like these books where you see so many Green Lanterns--I like the Corps concept (no pun intended :)).
I am pretty curious to see where the Corps will stand after all this is over--will this "lethal force" be an ongoing thing, or is it something the Guardians will just bring out and make available in extreme situations?
So, what is it with the Sinestro Corps and teeth? First Parallax gives Kyle the worst dental makeover ever, and now they show Lyssa Drak with a set of similar narrow, pointy ones. The more teeth, the more evil?
It's not a bad book, but I still plan to drop it after the Sinestro Corps War is over; I'm just not finding Hal all that compelling. But I do like these books where you see so many Green Lanterns--I like the Corps concept (no pun intended :)).
I am pretty curious to see where the Corps will stand after all this is over--will this "lethal force" be an ongoing thing, or is it something the Guardians will just bring out and make available in extreme situations?
Sunday, November 04, 2007
I (and the rest of the internet) told you so! [Spoilers]
Well, it being the early part of the month, I am reading spoilers freely for those books I won't see until the early part of next month, so I now know that, indeed, Jason Todd did not intend to turn on his team. I do hope that that little "you SHOT me!" thing won't be a problem for his being able to work with Donna in the long run... :)
Saturday, November 03, 2007
Thank you, comic internet! Every so often I come across a piece that manages to define for me something that I've had a feeling about for a while but never put into words, and today that piece was Comics Economics at Are You Feelin Big Mike.
Really, this thing gives me a pretty good idea of why I grew up (and still remain, for the most part) primarily a fan of Marvel rather than DC. (Well, one of the reasons. Love is complicated. :))
That seems to be true. When I wanted to start getting into DC comics a couple of years ago, I had to ask for directions. I started out with old JLA trade paperbacks, then branched off into Green Lantern from there. After that, I picked up things as I saw them recommended, for the most part (Birds of Prey, All-New Atom, both of which kindasorta standalone, come to think of it, or at least are readable on their own). And I'm okay with checking Wikipedia to find out what I don't know, and I sort of like all the old-DC-universe details, so really, I'm cool. But I can see where it could be daunting to a totally new reader.
But yeah, as a kid the only DC I read was Legion of Superheroes, and that was pretty much the only DC book that stood alone at the time (most of the time).
On the whole, with my Marvel comics, I don't have to keep looking at Wikipedia to find out what's what. Heck, I've been reading New Avengers since it began and I've never looked up Echo, and I still have no idea who she is outside of the NA context...
Really, this thing gives me a pretty good idea of why I grew up (and still remain, for the most part) primarily a fan of Marvel rather than DC. (Well, one of the reasons. Love is complicated. :))
Marvel has spent decades creating little sub-markets within Earth 616 so that readers can read X-Men or Spidey or Fantastic Four and ignore most of the other books most of the time. DC doesn't let us get away with that.
That seems to be true. When I wanted to start getting into DC comics a couple of years ago, I had to ask for directions. I started out with old JLA trade paperbacks, then branched off into Green Lantern from there. After that, I picked up things as I saw them recommended, for the most part (Birds of Prey, All-New Atom, both of which kindasorta standalone, come to think of it, or at least are readable on their own). And I'm okay with checking Wikipedia to find out what I don't know, and I sort of like all the old-DC-universe details, so really, I'm cool. But I can see where it could be daunting to a totally new reader.
But yeah, as a kid the only DC I read was Legion of Superheroes, and that was pretty much the only DC book that stood alone at the time (most of the time).
On the whole, with my Marvel comics, I don't have to keep looking at Wikipedia to find out what's what. Heck, I've been reading New Avengers since it began and I've never looked up Echo, and I still have no idea who she is outside of the NA context...
Friday, November 02, 2007
Wizard Alternatives?
I don't know offhand if the thirteen-year-old will still ask for Wizard with the new blurb. In general she doesn't succumb to peer pressure, meaning that she doesn't care a whole lot what other people think of her or whether her stuff is "boy stuff" or "girl stuff", but every so often she does. But she'd certainly be part of the market for comic-related magazines in a few years, and as a kid/teen, she likes the shiny, splashy, image-heavy sort of magazine. She probably would have started getting Wizard; now, maybe not.
When I was her age or thereabouts, I read The Comics Journal. I even subscribed to it at one point. Back then they covered a lot of mainstream books, whether because there were fewer indies or because that was just their focus at the time, I don't know. Currently I think their coverage of mainstream titles is pretty limited (although I can't swear to this because I haven't seen a copy in years), so I don't expect I'd care as much for it these days.
And of course there's the internet now, which wasn't the case when I was younger. That makes me a bit more picky about print publications--where I used to be more willing to pick up a whole magazine because it had a single article of interest, now I'm less likely to do that.
But you know, I don't know of any other comic book magazines. Our local newsstand--yes, there's just the one--certainly doesn't carry them (just Wizard--hm, wonder if they'll be moving it to another shelf now...). Are there any others? (Preferably ones that don't make you feel like an uncultured lout if you're a Marvel/DC fan? :))
When I was her age or thereabouts, I read The Comics Journal. I even subscribed to it at one point. Back then they covered a lot of mainstream books, whether because there were fewer indies or because that was just their focus at the time, I don't know. Currently I think their coverage of mainstream titles is pretty limited (although I can't swear to this because I haven't seen a copy in years), so I don't expect I'd care as much for it these days.
And of course there's the internet now, which wasn't the case when I was younger. That makes me a bit more picky about print publications--where I used to be more willing to pick up a whole magazine because it had a single article of interest, now I'm less likely to do that.
But you know, I don't know of any other comic book magazines. Our local newsstand--yes, there's just the one--certainly doesn't carry them (just Wizard--hm, wonder if they'll be moving it to another shelf now...). Are there any others? (Preferably ones that don't make you feel like an uncultured lout if you're a Marvel/DC fan? :))
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Winter Soldier musings [Spoilers]
So after seeing the most recent Captain America, I have to say that the way Brubaker (and, through his pen, Faustus) makes use of standard Golden Age comic book themes is very neat.
Kid sidekicks, back in the Golden Age (and beyond, for those comic companies who retained the kid sidekick) were kids who had been in some way traumatized. Generally orphaned, because (a) the hero couldn't be the parent because a parent wouldn't take the kid into danger like the hero did, and (b) the hero couldn't be the parent because he needed to maintain a youthful, vigorous image. In some cases the kid sidekick, like Dick Grayson, had been witness to the actual deaths of his parents (I'm sticking with the male pronouns here because just about all the heroes and sidekicks were male), although I think more often the kid was just identified as an orphan and no further details were given. (Movies of the time were full of spunky, mouthy orphans who nonetheless had hearts of gold--because a kid with parents couldn't have been given as much freedom to act as these kids were.)
Golden Age Bucky was a pretty typical comic/movie orphan of the time, enjoying the lack of parental control (and subsequent ability to roam the countryside with Captain America as needed) while never really addressing the problems associated with having no parents. Since their deaths took place somewhere in the hazy past, the readers would have presumed that he was long over any period of mourning that had taken place, if they'd thought about it at all, which very likely they did not.
(It may have been that Robin was an exception to this rule in that his parents' death is specifically part of his origin, but it seems designed to match up with Batman's own origin. And, in practice, neither Batman nor Robin seemed to think all that often about their parents back then--both were pretty light-hearted most of the time.)
In any case, Bucky's parents didn't die in order to inspire him to greatness--they died so that he'd be an orphan and therefore available to help Cap. Oddly, while Bucky stayed at the camp, his sister (a Silver Age or later addition, I think) was was sent off to boarding school--staying at the camp was his choice and preference, according to the current text, but could possibly have been due to the fighting and bullying, limiting other options--the equivalent of "military school" for a trouble-maker? And even if he would rather be there, his separation from his sister was still more separation from the familiar, and possibly an indication to him that she was welcome elsewhere and he was not.
However, just because the Golden Age didn't show the effects doesn't have to mean they weren't there, and Faustus sees them and makes good use of them. Nothing he tries on Bucky works at first. He tries to convince him that Captain America was a Nazi, and it doesn't work--there's no way that Bucky would believe that. He then tries to put across the idea that the Invaders were vicious thugs, taking joy in killing the enemy--again, no dice, Bucky's faith in his comrades' heroism is unshakable.
Then Faustus takes a more subtle tactic--he plays on Bucky's abandonment issues (based in his childhood), twisting the truth of his and Cap's disappearance and telling him that, rather than urging him to get off of the rocket, Cap had insisted that he stay on it to disarm it, while jumping off himself because he was the important one. Not at all like Cap, but very close to Bucky's own fear of not measuring up, lack of self-worth, and subconscious expectation that those you care about will eventually leave you.
He doesn't question Cap's devotion to the American ideal. He doesn't question whether the Invaders were real heroes. He has faith in them. What he does question is his own right to be counted among their number, his own worth. He doesn't seem to think that Cap would have been his friend if he'd known what he was "really" like ("...the worst in you...you'd never let him see that part..."). That, combined with the fact that he sees even good relationships as tenuous and easily lost, makes this the thing that gets Faustus' foot in the door.
Whether or not Bucky really believes that Cap would have left him, he doesn't believe, not really, that he was Cap's equal partner. He doesn't believe that he deserved to be on the team. And he fears that those aspects of his character that he tried to hide from Cap--the fighting and bullying, the "mean streak" Faustus praises--are all there truly is to him. (And it's true enough that, as the Winter Soldier, he was encouraged to emphasize them--that he was valued for these characteristics.) Therefore this scenario is not as implausible to him as the others were. And therefore it's the one that works.
Yes, I know that it's uncertain whether the brainwashing really worked, or whether WS is playing along. Just saying that it's not unreasonable that this is what would have worked.
Kid sidekicks, back in the Golden Age (and beyond, for those comic companies who retained the kid sidekick) were kids who had been in some way traumatized. Generally orphaned, because (a) the hero couldn't be the parent because a parent wouldn't take the kid into danger like the hero did, and (b) the hero couldn't be the parent because he needed to maintain a youthful, vigorous image. In some cases the kid sidekick, like Dick Grayson, had been witness to the actual deaths of his parents (I'm sticking with the male pronouns here because just about all the heroes and sidekicks were male), although I think more often the kid was just identified as an orphan and no further details were given. (Movies of the time were full of spunky, mouthy orphans who nonetheless had hearts of gold--because a kid with parents couldn't have been given as much freedom to act as these kids were.)
Golden Age Bucky was a pretty typical comic/movie orphan of the time, enjoying the lack of parental control (and subsequent ability to roam the countryside with Captain America as needed) while never really addressing the problems associated with having no parents. Since their deaths took place somewhere in the hazy past, the readers would have presumed that he was long over any period of mourning that had taken place, if they'd thought about it at all, which very likely they did not.
(It may have been that Robin was an exception to this rule in that his parents' death is specifically part of his origin, but it seems designed to match up with Batman's own origin. And, in practice, neither Batman nor Robin seemed to think all that often about their parents back then--both were pretty light-hearted most of the time.)
In any case, Bucky's parents didn't die in order to inspire him to greatness--they died so that he'd be an orphan and therefore available to help Cap. Oddly, while Bucky stayed at the camp, his sister (a Silver Age or later addition, I think) was was sent off to boarding school--staying at the camp was his choice and preference, according to the current text, but could possibly have been due to the fighting and bullying, limiting other options--the equivalent of "military school" for a trouble-maker? And even if he would rather be there, his separation from his sister was still more separation from the familiar, and possibly an indication to him that she was welcome elsewhere and he was not.
However, just because the Golden Age didn't show the effects doesn't have to mean they weren't there, and Faustus sees them and makes good use of them. Nothing he tries on Bucky works at first. He tries to convince him that Captain America was a Nazi, and it doesn't work--there's no way that Bucky would believe that. He then tries to put across the idea that the Invaders were vicious thugs, taking joy in killing the enemy--again, no dice, Bucky's faith in his comrades' heroism is unshakable.
Then Faustus takes a more subtle tactic--he plays on Bucky's abandonment issues (based in his childhood), twisting the truth of his and Cap's disappearance and telling him that, rather than urging him to get off of the rocket, Cap had insisted that he stay on it to disarm it, while jumping off himself because he was the important one. Not at all like Cap, but very close to Bucky's own fear of not measuring up, lack of self-worth, and subconscious expectation that those you care about will eventually leave you.
He doesn't question Cap's devotion to the American ideal. He doesn't question whether the Invaders were real heroes. He has faith in them. What he does question is his own right to be counted among their number, his own worth. He doesn't seem to think that Cap would have been his friend if he'd known what he was "really" like ("...the worst in you...you'd never let him see that part..."). That, combined with the fact that he sees even good relationships as tenuous and easily lost, makes this the thing that gets Faustus' foot in the door.
Whether or not Bucky really believes that Cap would have left him, he doesn't believe, not really, that he was Cap's equal partner. He doesn't believe that he deserved to be on the team. And he fears that those aspects of his character that he tried to hide from Cap--the fighting and bullying, the "mean streak" Faustus praises--are all there truly is to him. (And it's true enough that, as the Winter Soldier, he was encouraged to emphasize them--that he was valued for these characteristics.) Therefore this scenario is not as implausible to him as the others were. And therefore it's the one that works.
Yes, I know that it's uncertain whether the brainwashing really worked, or whether WS is playing along. Just saying that it's not unreasonable that this is what would have worked.
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